Everything About Exposed Aggregate for Beautiful Driveway

The exposed aggregate is best explained as something that shows the underlying beauty after its plain surface has been removed. The different decorative course is exposed after the concrete on the top layer is stripped away. This method has been in use since early 20^th century and can be found till today as driveways, sidewalks, pool decks, patios, decorative retaining wall, architectural building facades etc. Because of the features of durability and resistance to skid, the exposed aggregate driveways are quite popular these days.

Selecting Exposed Aggregate

The selection of the exposed aggregate driveways is an important decision that has to be taken after the considering certain factors. Not only this decision puts an impact on the overall look of the driveway but also plays an important role behind the overall costs of the project. Some factors to consider are:

Exposed Aggregate Driveways

• Hardness: The different aggregates have separate structure and hardness. Depending upon your requirement choose the aggregates.
• Color: The color of the aggregates depends on their geological origin which varies between soft to rich hues. You can choose between sandy brown gravel or black basalt, gray limestone or red or blue granite or pink quartz as per your choice.
• Shape: To create a different pattern or texture you need a particular shape of aggregates but however round and smooth ones are for best coverage.
• Gradation and size: Depending on the kind of pattern you are planning for the driveway, you must choose the size of the aggregates.
• Durability: Some aggregates are highly durable and can withstand different weather conditions.
• Availability and cost: Not all kinds of aggregates are available in all location. If some of these are not available locally, you must pay more for purchasing them.

Maintenance and Repair of Exposed Aggregate Driveway

The exposed aggregate driveways have rugged, non-skid and highly durable surface that can withstand extreme weather and heavy traffic. Little maintenance on regular basis along with cleaning can extend its life and make it look new for long. Applying transparent concrete sealer to the surface can help in enhancing the look as well as performance of the driveway. It can provide protection to the aggregate driveway from stains, abrasions, spalling, dust, freeze-thaw damage, deicing salts and efflorescence. Using a brush or roller or air spray you can apply a non-yellowing, UV resistant sealer that can offer high gloss look and repels oil, water and grease.

Exposed Aggregate Concrete

Even after maintenance, you will find some cracks that can be repaired easily with few steps. 

• Firstly, you need to clean the surface that needs to be repaired for any dust or debris.
• Then cover the decorative part with duct or painters tape to protect it from damages from the repair works that will be carried on.
• Mix the concrete that is needed for the repair work and pour it in the cracks evenly. Remove the tape that was used to protect the decorative part after you have poured the concrete, or it will harden up. Smoothen up the surface using some tool or towel to create an even surface on the patch.

The exposed aggregate has its own unique look but using some ideas, it is possible to create a trendy look for the driveways. Special effects on the driveway can be created by using chemical stain in different patterns. One can place the aggregates in groups separated by bands, glass, wood or joints for a contrast look. Create shading effect by arranging the exposed aggregate at varying degree from light to heavy. Combing pattern stamping with exposed aggregate can produce interesting borders too. Using some creativity can create a beautiful driveway complementing your improved home.